Just How Many Zombie Hayfever Drivers are on Britain’s Roads?

Here at Medical Specialists® Pharmacy we’d like to think that the majority of our patients would not ever think of getting behind the wheel of a vehicle after consuming alcohol or after ingesting any illegal drugs.

However, would you get behind the wheel after taking a few tablets of legal drugs? More specifically – over-the-counter or prescription medication.

A new survey by car insurance company Confused.com has found some alarming statistics which could highlight just how safety conscious some of the drivers on Britain’s roads actually are.

The survey showed that approximately 1 in every 15 motorists suffering with hayfever say they have had their driving ability negatively impacted due to being under their influence of their medication.

What is not clear in the Confused.com poll is precisely how many motorists were taking drowsy antihistamines and if any actually more sensibly decided to opt for the non-drowsy antihistamines before getting behind the wheel, the latter of which includes the popular loratadine and cetirizine, supplied from Medical Specialists®.

Antihistamine medicines are generally classified into three groups. These are:

• First-generation antihistamines – These cause drowsiness in the majority of people and treatments include alimemazine, chlorphenamine, clemastine, cyproheptadine, diphenhydramine, hydroxyzine, ketotifen and promethazine. These medicines can also be used for their sedative effects should a person’s sleep be interrupted by itching.
• Second- or third-generation antihistamines – These are referred to as ‘non-drowsy’ hayfever treatments as they are less likely to cause drowsiness, and include treatments such as acrivastine, cetirizine, desloratadine, fexofenadine, levocetirizine, loratadine, and mizolastine. However, those performing skilled tasks – for example, driving – should be aware that a sedative effect could occur and, in particular, in combination with alcohol.

Pharmacists or doctors would recommend taking second- or third-generation antihistamines and only first generation treatments where the sedating effects are beneficial to the person – i.e. to help them sleep.

The Confused.com poll found that 4% of those motorists reported they have been involved in a car accident following taking hay fever medication. This calls into question just how many sedated and zombie-like drivers are populating the roads, putting themselves at others at grave risk, especially with the survey revealing that more than 1 in 7 have driven after taking drugs.

These are not illegal drugs taken for a high – i.e. cocaine or ecstasy – the majority of those in the poll admit they are in fact driving while under the influence of legal prescription or over-the-counter medication. In fact, motorists are four times more likely to drive after taking a legal drug compared to an illegal one.

Although doses of prescribed or over-the-counter drugs might not be exceeding any limits with regards to driving, it seems those with hay fever are simply not paying attention to the important warnings given in the patient information leaflets. Medical Specialists® cannot stress enough how imperative it is to read these and they can contain warnings which could help to avoid illness or even death.

As mentioned previously, antihistamines are usually the first port of all for anyone looking to keep their hayfever symptoms at bay, but people may not realise that there can be dangerous and unpredictable effects if taken those with certain conditions or if taken in conjunction with other things such as alcohol or certain antidepressants. Failing to read the patient information leaflet to take the drugs only as directed would mean people would probably not realise these factors.

The Confused.com poll showed that 15% of motorists who suffer from hayfever do not bother to read the accompanying leaflet inside the medication’s box.

Furthermore, 1 in 15 Brits (7%) are not adhering to the recommended dose, whilst alarmingly, 3% admitted they were unaware there was such a thing.

There are about 16 million people in the UK that are suffering with hayfever, just over a third of motorists (34%) have the condition, with the majority taking medication to supress the symptoms that include watery and itchy eyes, a runny nose, sneezing and an itchy throat.

However, patients often forget that all prescription and over-the-counter drugs, which includes those to fight hay fever, can have some unwanted side effects.

The survey highlighted the common complaints from hay fever treatment, with the respondent’s driving ability affected by drowsiness (55%), feeling lethargic (35%) and blurred vision (35%).

Dr Richard Vautery, deputy chair of the British Medical Association General Practitioners Committee, said: “Patients have a responsibility to only drive if they feel safe to do so.

“If they feel any medication they are taking is adversely affecting their ability to make quick decisions or concentrate, then they shouldn’t be behind the wheel.

“Their insurance will also not be valid if they were to do so.

“Patients should discuss any new drugs they are prescribed with their GP and with the pharmacists that provides them to find out whether there would be any impact on their ability to drive.

“This information is also always within the leaflet provided to patients when they are given prescription drugs.”

In March last year, new drug-driving laws listing 8 prescription drugs and 8 illicit drugs came into force across England and Wales, with roadside drug screening devices to detect those driving under the influence.

The devices seem to be doing their job – in 2015, 2,090 motorists were charged with drug-driving, compared with just 870 in 2014 – an increase of 140% – according to Freedom of Information data.
Medical Specialists® again would like to stress the absolute importance of reading any drug’s patient information leaflet to avoid putting yourself and other’s at risk, especially whilst on the roads. As the weather is now picking up and more people are heading outdoors and into pollen-filled air, this means a lot of people with hayfever are going to suffer if they are not taking their antihistamines. In addition to reading through the safety information of your hayfever treatment, we would recommend familiarising yourself with the drug-driving laws that came into force last year.

Beware! The Hidden Dangers of Euro 2016 you are Oblivious to…

The European Championship in France is now less than three months away and there has been widespread concern regarding security risks, following recent terror attacks in the capital. With this in mind, UEFA commented last month ensuring appropriate mechanisms would be in place to ensure a “safe and secure” tournament for all those involved.

However, could there other risks for fans travelling to France for Euro 2016? Perhaps looking after one’s own health will not be the number one priority for most supporters whilst in another country and cheering on their national team, but Medical Specialists® Pharmacy would like to stress the importance of looking after your health during this time – and indeed any other time – as well as managing any health condition you may have.

One major health issue facing France is the problem of air pollution – a problem which last year the French Senate committee estimated the annual cost to be at €101.3 billion within a report they published.

The two key air pollutants that can affect asthmatics are ozone (found in smog) and particle pollution (found in haze, smoke, and dust). When ozone and particle pollution are present in the air, children or adults with asthma are at a higher risk of symptoms. The World Health Organisation (WHO) state that particle pollution is responsible for 42,000 premature deaths each year in France alone.

It is often acknowledged by health experts that air pollutants often act as a trigger to make people’s asthma symptoms worse. Asthma UK have previously said: “Two-thirds of people with asthma tell us that traffic fumes make their asthma worse and 42% find that traffic fumes discourage them from walking or shopping in congested areas. And 85% of people with asthma tell us they are concerned about the effect that increasing vehicle fumes will have on their and their family’s health in the future.”

Therefore, anyone wanting to get in a lung-busting jog to burn off those match day drinks and pies would be advised to do so in the morning, a time when both ozone levels and pollen counts tend to be lower. In addition, if possible, try to keep at least 50 feet from auto exhaust and heavily trafficked roads during either walking or jogging; walking paths or forest trails would be ideal for asthma sufferers. Perhaps most importantly, Medical Specialists® cannot stress enough how critical it is that anyone with asthma travelling to France in June must remember to take their blue reliever and brown preventer inhalers!

Inhalers should be accompanied by antihistamines if you also suffer with hayfever. Not everybody with asthma has hayfever, but many do, and your asthma symptoms may worsen if you also have hayfever. March to September is typically the peak time for pollen counts and when people need to be taking their antihistamines daily, such as Loratadine, Cetirizine, etc.

The west coast of France is usually the best place to be during hayfever season as pollen counts are generally low. Unfortunately, the only games being held there will be in Bordeaux. More inland, France has lush vegetation, where pollen counts can be very high. The south of France and the French Riviera are particularly known for their high pollen counts, meaning supporters with hayfever that are travelling to games held in Marseille, Nice and Toulouse, should prepare accordingly. Also, grass pollen poses the greatest risk within areas around Paris – another city playing host to fixtures – and tree pollen counts can also be high.

Back in late June 2013, hayfever sufferers across France were put on a ‘red alert’, warned of a massive peak in the levels of grass and cereal pollen in the air for the first two weeks of July at least, which is when Euro 2016 will be taking place this year. Therefore, don’t ruin your experience of Euro 2016 by forgetting your hayfever treatment…the only tears we expect to see will be from an England inevitable early exit from the tournament, although hopefully that won’t be the case!

Of course we don’t want to stereotype the average football fan, but with thousands of passionate football fans flocking overseas to see their team in action, this can lead to some ‘boisterous’ behaviour. With England and Wales both having two group B games kicking off at 8pm, this leaves plenty of spare time in the day, which can mean fans spilling into cafes, pubs, and bars hours before the game has even kicked off.

During a single drinking session try to limit how much you drink, drink more slowly, drink with food and alternate with water or non-alcoholic drinks. In another city, country, or in a risky or unfamiliar situations in general, it is imperative to keep a close track of alcohol consumption. Being too drunk could leave you vulnerable and at risk from others, or unable to look after your friends and loved ones.
Alcohol affects the ability to make sensible, rational decisions, resulting in more careless and risky behaviours. One such behaviour – linked intrinsically to excessive alcohol consumption – is having unprotected sex. Maybe England and/or Wales will advance far beyond the group stages of Euro 2016, but this is no excuse to throw caution to the wind and forget usual safe sex practices in the process.

Any sexually active adult should always carry and use condoms when required, so don’t forget to pack them before making the journey to France. The last thing you would want to bring home besides a depleted bank account and hangover will be a sexually transmitted infection or unwanted pregnancy.
Medical Specialists® Pharmacy don’t wish to be total party poopers though! As the 2016 European Championship in France is nearing, the excitement is building as the nation’s hopes of a first tournament success in 60 years (the 1966 World Cup remains the last taste of glory for England) will rest on the young shoulders of the England football team.

Optimism has reached fever pitch following March’s incredibly impressive 3-2 win over reigning World champions, Germany, with a particularly standout performance from 19-year-old Dele Alli, a player many are tipping to be a star of Euro 2016.

There will be thousands of Brits flocking over the English Channel in June, in time for both England’s opening game against Russia on Saturday 11 June and Wales v Slovakia on the same day. We hope that everyone making the trip to France enjoys the tournament and fantastic atmosphere that accompanies such events, just remember to look after your health and wellbeing too!

Hay fever hell set to continue for millions of Brits

With it being the start of October tomorrow, hay fever sufferers may have thought they were in the clear by now and believe they are unlikely to have a flare-up of typical symptoms such as runny nose, watery and itchy eyes, and sneezing.

Unfortunately, there has been evidence of an emergence in Britain of the biggest US culprit for hay fever, which could mean that an estimated 18 million Brits with the condition are not out of the woods just yet. This equates to one in five of us.

The mild weather of the last few weeks has provided the perfect opportunity for common ragweed to flourish. Ragweed is a highly allergenic plant that can release a staggering one billion pollen grains within a single season.

Ragweed pollen came to European territory way back in the 1960s, contained in contaminated seed, but needs extended and mild autumns to really thrive and therefore does not usually have a massive impact in the UK. In North America though, ragweed pollen is responsible for sparking a huge number of asthma and allergy attacks.

In recent times, scientists have barely ever been able to detect the pollen in the UK’s air. However, earlier this month scientists in the East Midlands found ragweed pollen present in the air for four consecutive days, and on the third day, there more sufficient pollen to cause an onset of hay fever and asthma symptoms for those that have these conditions.

Ragweed is substantially more allergenic than grass and could prove a serious issue for those with hay fever and/or asthma if its volume continues to increase in the air. Not only that, it would mean a longer hay fever season for many, as the season commonly ends in August for a lot of people with hay fever.

Health experts have also warned asthmatics to be vigilant and make sure they always carry their asthma inhalers in case of an attack.

Deborah Waddell, lead clinical advisor at Asthma UK, last week said: “The milder weather and presence of ragweed pollen may now result in a longer pollen season this year which will cause misery for people with asthma and hay fever in the UK.

“The 79 per cent of people with asthma who find that pollen makes their symptoms worse may also be at an increased risk of a potentially life threatening asthma attack.”

Dr Catherine Pashley, who led the research in Leicester, says the plant can reach three feet in height and had most likely managed to find its way into Europe from birdseed imported from the US.
She also said that though cases of ragweed had been found in Britain previously, none of which were enough to cause of pollen problem.

Dr Pashley said: “Ragweed can’t survive in the East Midlands because of our cooler climate compared to North America and Central Europe, so we were very surprised to see it when we analysed the pollen and fungi in the air earlier this month.

“Most years we haven’t seen any at all. Some years we’ve seen one or two grains in a day. Now instead we’ve had ragweed in the air on four consecutive days and one of the days it went well above the level which is known to cause problems in people allergic to it. So that was completely unexpected. It could extend the hayfever season for people who may be allergic to it.

“Whether or not we continue to see more ragweed will very much depend on how mild this autumn is and when we have the first frost. If it is a late frost, it is likely that ragweed levels may increase this time next year.”

Medical Specialists® Pharmacy have a wide range of treatments for hay fever that can ease symptoms for sufferers, including Loratadine – a non-drowsy antihistamine which can provide relief from the symptoms of hay fever and Nasonex nasal spray – a nasal corticosteroid spray for the relief of congestion, sneezing, itching and a runny nose. Prevalin is another nasal spray that lines the inside of your nose and actually deactivates the pollen, and Alomide allergy eye drops that can bring relief from red, itchy, watery and puffy eyes if used regularly.

30 million Brits could be suffering with hay fever within 20 years

Experts are warning that increasing levels of pollution will cause large amounts of pollen to be trapped in the atmosphere, resulting in the number of hay fever sufferers in the UK doubling to reach 30 million in the next two decades.

Hay fever is also known as seasonal allergic rhinitis, and already effects around 15 million people in the UK – 10 million of these in England alone. The common allergic condition can be absolute misery for those who have it, causing a variety of symptoms such as a blocked or runny nose, frequent sneezing, itchy, red, or watery eyes and headaches caused by a stuffy nose.

One in 5 Brits have to battle these despairing symptoms, with more than nine out of 10 people in the UK with hay fever are allergic to grass pollen, which usually peaks in mid-June. It is therefore no surprise that Medical Specialists™ Pharmacy have seen requests for non-drowsy antihistamines such as Cetirizine and Loratadine soar in recent weeks as patients, new and old, try to keep their symptoms managed.

However, whilst most in Britain are grateful for the recent soaring temperatures, the sunshine can spell misery for those with hay fever.

Researchers at the National Pollen and Aerobiology Research Unit at Worcester University say that two primary factors – weather and pollution – are closely connected to the summer allergy.

They say that hay fever is found to be twice as prevalent in Britain’s towns and cities compared to the countryside, due to much larger amounts of traffic pollution, adding that ‘photochemical smog’ is produced from vehicle fumes. This smog then traps pollen in its tracks before it can escape into the upper atmosphere.

This results is to concentrate the spores where hay fever sufferers are in reach of them – at ground level.

Beverley Adams-Groom, chief pollen forecaster at the National Pollen and Aerobiology Research Unit spoke about how the weather is also a problematic factor for those with hay fever.

She said: “Weather and pollen are closely linked. Since 2007, poor weather has meant average pollen seasons. The mild, wet weather of the late winter and early spring is responsible for increased pollen levels this year.

“This year there has been good grass growth as a result of the pre-summer climate and we are increasingly experiencing longer, more intense pollen seasons. With a dry British summer predicted there is potential for a severe hay fever season in 2014.”

The start of summer may officially only be three days away and bringing with it a potential heap of anguish for millions, but you can prepare right now by visiting the Medical Specialists™ Pharmacy asthma and allergies page where you can find a wide range of hay fever treatments like antihistamines, nasal sprays, eye drops and sinus rinses.

Allergy Awareness Week begins as hayfever sufferers set to face brutal summer

As we are into the second day of Allergy Awareness Week – proudly supported by Medical Specialists™ Pharmacy – New research has shown that hayfever rates have soared to record levels and could get much worse in the future.

Britain is set to experience one of the most severe summers in recent years according to weather analysts, and charity Allergy UK who are running the awareness week that runs to 4 May, say that nearly a third of the population are now suffering with hayfever.

Hayfever symptoms are caused by an inhalation of pollen particles and by pollen getting into the eyes. Symptoms can flare-up from anywhere between early spring to late summer, depending on which particular pollen(s) you have an allergy to. The common pollens that prove problematic in early spring for hay fever suffers are those that emanate from trees such as the ash, oak, silver birch, and London plane.

Medical Specialists™ Pharmacy offer a wide range of medicines  to treat allergies such as hayfever, including Loratadine – a non-drowsy antihistamine which can provide relief from the symptoms of hay fever and Nasonex nasal spray – a nasal corticosteroid spray for the relief of congestion, sneezing, itching and a runny nose. Prevalin is another nasal spray that lines the inside of your nose and actually deactivates the pollen, and Alomide allergy eye drops that can bring relief from red, itchy, watery and puffy eyes if used regularly.

If all that isn’t enough, Medical Specialists™ now offer the fantastic NeilMed Sinus Rinse Starter Kit, which is suitable for all ages. This natural soothing saline wash can be used to alleviate many problems such as:

Nasal allergies & dryness.
Sinusitis, rhinitis.
Allergic asthma.
Post nasal drip.
Sinus pressure & nasal stuffiness.
Nasal symptoms from flu & cold.
Nasal irritation from occupational dust, fumes, animal dander, grass, pollen, smoke & house dust.
Nasal congestion.

Professor Jean Emberlin, scientific director for Allergy UK, commented: “We now have one of the highest rates [of hayfever] worldwide.” She says high use of antibiotics in children could be behind a higher risk of allergies in general, with as many as 38% of children now afflicted by hayfever in some areas of the UK.

Therefore, this week’s Allergy Awareness Week has arrived at a perfect time and aims to put a spotlight onto the difficulties faced by those who have allergies, what they can do to manage their symptoms, treatment options, with Allergy UK urging as many people as possible to participate and give their support. In the following weeks there will also be several fundraising events taking place.
The charity is now encouraging people to assess their medication prior to the grass pollen season beginning at the start of summer.

Prof Ember in said: “Early ­indications are that it could be severe. This year the mild winter and warm spring resulted in the birch pollen season starting about four weeks ­earlier than in 2013.
“Birch ­pollen counts increased ­rapidly in the last week of March throughout the South and Midlands and the season spread northwards quickly.

“About 25 per cent of ­sufferers are allergic to birch pollen and this year has been a severe one for them.

“The oak pollen ­season – which affects one in five sufferers – also started earlier this year.

“The grass pollen season – which affects about 95 per cent of hayfever sufferers – will start in the last week of May in the South with a fairly long lag time of a few weeks to the North.

“Due to the warm spring, the start will be gradual rather than having a sudden increase in grass pollen counts.

Maureen Jenkins, director of ­clinical services at Allergy UK, added: “We are urging people to check whether they are using their medication correctly rather than just soldiering on and ­prolonging their suffering. If symptoms aren’t improving with treatment, it’s so important to get medical advice to control this debilitating condition, which is also associated with the development of asthma.”

Air Pollution, Hay fever and the Treatment

Every year in the UK millions of people experience the discomfort and symptoms associated with seasonal allergic rhinitis, better known as hay fever. In fact, health experts say Britain currently has one of the highest rates of hay fever in the world with around a quarter of the population suffering with it.

2014 UK Air Pollution

As many will know, this week has seen many parts of the UK affected by high levels of air pollution. The smog-like conditions are a dangerous mix of dust from the Sahara with local and continental pollution. One poll conducted this week of 532 asthmatics for Asthma UK discovered that 30% have suffered an attack because of the pollution and 84% said they are using their blue reliever inhaler more frequently than usual.

Dr Keith Prowse, honorary medical adviser to the British Lung Foundation, spoke of the danger the Saharan dust and air pollution may have a “significant impact” on those with respiratory problems.
“People who use a reliever inhaler should make sure that they carry it with them. If they feel that their conditions are worsening then they should contact their GPs” he said.

According to the Defra (the Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs) website, those with lung and heart conditions have been told to cut down or avoid outdoor strenuous physical activity and those feeling the repercussions of pollution – including sore eyes, coughs and sore throats – are advised to reduce the amount of activity and time spent outdoors.

Hay fever symptoms and cause

Symptoms include sneezing, a blocked or runny, nose, headaches, red, itchy, or watery eyes, and are caused by an allergic reaction from pollen in the air that has been released from grasses, weeds or trees, usually during the spring and summer months. The plants produce ‘allergens’ – substances that trigger an allergic reaction.

For those unfortunately with hay fever, your body is producing immunoglobulin when you come into contact with pollen allergens and mistakes it for something harmful like a virus, your immune system overreacts and then the release of chemicals is triggered into certain cells in the eyes, nose and throat. One of the chemicals is histamine and it is this histamine which is responsible for the troublesome symptoms of hay fever.

Treatment

Prior to seeing a GP, you can speak to your local pharmacist about your symptoms as over-the-counter medicines may be able to help such as antihistamines; Loratadine is a popular non-drowsy antihistamine and can be taken as an ‘as required’ treatment when symptoms arise or as a ‘preventative’ method before you leave the house and know the pollen count is high. Non-drowsy antihistamine nasal sprays such as Prevalin can also be used to relieve the symptoms of hay fever in the nose and eyes. Alomide eye drops is another over-the-counter treatment are used to relieve the symptoms of hay fever such as red, itchy, watery and puffy eyes. The eye drops need to be used regularly to achieve relief from the symptoms. Once your symptoms improve, you should continue to use the drops regularly for as long as necessary to prevent the allergy.

There is also prescription-only corticosteroid nasal sprays such as Nasonex, which works at reducing the inflammation inside your nose after pollen has triggered an allergic reaction. Whether it’s hay fever, dust allergies or a seasonal problem, Nasonex can prevent you from suffering and allow you to enjoy life again.

All of the above treatments are available today from Medical Specialists™ Pharmacy at low prices, in addition to a wide range of asthma inhalers such as the blue reliever Ventolin Evohaler; asthma has been often linked to hay fever and both conditions need to be closely monitored and treated.

Who is at risk?

Around 2 in 10 people in the UK have hay fever, usually beginning in childhood and during the teenage years. The condition may actually disappear or improve in some cases, usually after suffering with symptoms each season for many years.

It is unclear what causes the immune system to react in the way it does to cause hay fever, but the condition tends to run in families. Your hay fever risk is also increased if you already have asthma or eczema or if you have already have hay fever, you are more likely to develop eczema or asthma.
The pollen count

The millions of people with hay fever are probably familiar with something called the pollen count, which is average number of pollen grains within one cubic metre of air over a period of 24 hours. As different people may have symptoms from certain types of pollen only, there are pollen counts for grass, tree and weed pollen and fungal spores and sufferers are usually advised to monitor weekly pollen forecasts so they can decide when it is best to begin or stop treatment. The pollen count is affected by weather and there is normally more pollen on dry, sunny days and much less pollen in the air when it is raining.

The pollen count forecast is normally judged as:

. Low: less than 30 grains of pollen in every cubic metre of air.
. Moderate: 30-49 grains of pollen in every cubic metre of air.
. High: 50-149 grains of pollen in every cubic metre of air.
. Very high: 150 or more grains of pollen in every cubic metre of air.
In the UK, the pollen count season is segregated into three sections:

. Tree pollen – late March to mid-May.
. Grass pollen – mid-May to July.
. Weed pollen – end of June to September.

This is only an approximate guide, with the pollen count season occasionally starting in January or ending as late as November.

As noted earlier, allergens may also cause asthma symptoms to flare-up such as a shortness of breath, tight chest and coughing and wheezing. There has been evidence to show a clear association between hay fever and asthma and your asthma symptoms may become more severe when your hay fever symptoms occur fever, or asthma symptoms may only flare-up when you have hay fever. People with both conditions should speak to their GP or an asthma nurse as soon as possible as it is imperative to treat both conditions with the appropriate medicines.

High temperatures cause hay fever hell for millions

Millions of hay fever sufferers endured the hottest day of the year so far, with Hurn at Bournemouth yesterday reporting temperatures of an incredible 29.7C – warmer than that of certain areas of India and the Caribbean over the weekend.

As much of the UK headed to the seaside or parks, or alternatively stayed at home to watch Andy Murray’s sensational Wimbledon triumph, perhaps little thought would have been given to the large section of the population struggling to control itchy eyes, watering noses and constant sneezing.
There are an estimated 15 million hay fever sufferers in the UK alone, and high temperatures like those witnessed over the weekend can prove chaotic and sometimes even deadly for those with allergies.

On Friday a spokesman for the Met Office warned: “Potentially we could be seeing a new maximum temperature for the year on Sunday. Some parts of the country could get 30C (86F). This will exceed the previous hottest temperature of 27.2C that was seen on June 30 at Heathrow. However, the pollen counts are going to be high and very high for most of the country over the weekend, so it is going to be quite agonising for some.”

However, the high temperatures are expected to now continue until at least the middle of July, and perhaps a lot longer. This of course follows a strangely cold spring and the wet, miserable summer witnessed last year.

The hot weather and dry, settled conditions will cause pollen levels to shoot up and result in misery for those suffering with hay fever. Due to wet, later spring this year, the warm weather now hitting the UK has resulted in a surge in plant growth. Through this week and continuing to next week, forecasters predict the pollen counts to be extremely high across the majority of the country and only the very north of Scotland will probably see any relief.

Pollen forecasts are a vital tool for anybody suffering with hay fever or other allergies, to strategise medications, treatment, and plan how best to minimise the effect of pollen on their health. The pollen count season usually runs from March to August, but can begin as early as January and end as late as November.

The pollen season is segregated into three areas:

. Tree pollen - late March to mid-May.
. Grass pollen - mid-May to July.
. Weed pollen - end of June to September.

Public health officials are now warning people to take extra precaution with the rising temperatures, with fears that the dangers go much further than just a runny nose or itchy eyes.

In fact The Local Government Association states that for each additional degree above 25C, there could be 75 more fatalities; mostly young children and the elderly. A heat wave during 2003 claimed the lives of approximately 2,000 people, and there a fears the same situation could occur a decade on.

Zoe Patrick, chair of the Local Government Association’s community wellbeing board, said: “British summers are notoriously unpredictable and so with a few sunny weeks forecast we can all look forward to enjoying the fine weather for a change. Sadly there are some people for whom the temperatures will make life a little more difficult. The hundreds of deaths caused by extreme heat each year are avoidable. Councils are determined to reduce the toll as much as possible, but they cannot do it alone. Local people can make a massive difference by helping us identify other residents who might need some advice or practical help.”

Medical Specialists Pharmacy offer a wide range of medicines  to treat allergies such as hay fever including Loratadine – a non-drowsy antihistamine which can provide relief from the symptoms of hay fever and Nasonex nasal spray – a nasal corticosteroid spray for the relief of congestion, sneezing, itching and a runny nose. Prevalin is another nasal spray that lines the inside of your nose and actually deactivates the pollen, and finally there’s Alomide allergy eye drops that can bring relief from red, itchy, watery and puffy eyes if used regularly.

Warning for hay fever sufferers with predicted record pollen levels

From this week up to 28 April it is Allergy Awareness Week and unfortunately it is today we must report that hay fever sufferers could be in for a tough time in the coming months after it has emerged that the pollen count could rise prior to June and reach its highest levels in half a century.

The fact that the UK has experienced a much longer winter has resulted in a later onset for the spring season, with an early summer expected. These factors could help to increase pollen levels to a 50-year high affecting an estimated 16 million people around the UK who suffer with allergic rhinitis (hay fever).

Hay fever symptoms are induced by the inhalation of pollen particles and by pollen managing to get into the eyes. You can get hay fever from anywhere between early spring to late summer, depending on which particular pollen(s) you have an allergy to. The common pollens that prove problematic in early spring for hay fever suffers are those that emanate from trees such as the ash, oak, silver birch, and London plane.

Health experts state that this weekend saw the pollen count spiral from a reading of zero to high and predict further huge increases until June following a bitterly cold March and early April. It is thought England will be much worse off, but Scotland is also likely to experience a pollen ‘burst’ due to a cold March delaying the pollen season by a month. Because tree pollen levels are now set to surge and this ‘phenomenon’ of tree pollen will expectedly collide with grass pollen from late May.

Professor Roy Kennedy, of the National Pollen and Aerobiology Research Unit, and one of Britain’s leading hay fever experts said: “The cold spring meant a late start for pollen with a pollen burst now in a condensed period. It means peak pollen levels early in the season – not later, as normal. The last year to see similarly early-season pollen peaks is probably in the 1960s following a cold spring such as March 1962 – or even earlier. Scotland will also see a condensed tree pollen season. Hay fever sufferers could be badly affected and need to be aware of this.”

The NHS has urged those who could be affected to use wraparound sunglasses, to have a shower after being outdoors and then change into clean clothes. Anybody who suffers from hay fever and other allergies are also commonly advised to try and remain indoors as much as possible during the period of high pollen counts and to check the latest pollen forecast with the Met Office.

For those unaware, the pollen count season is usually from March to August, although it can begin as early January and sometimes end as late as November.

The pollen season is segregated into three main areas:

. Tree pollen - late March to mid-May.
. Grass pollen - mid-May to July.
. Weed pollen - end of June to September.

Medical Specialists Pharmacy offer a wide range of medicines  to treat allergies such as hay fever including Loratadine – a non-drowsy antihistamine which can provide relief from the symptoms of hay fever and Nasonex nasal spray – a nasal corticosteroid spray for the relief of congestion, sneezing, itching and a runny nose. Prevalin is another nasal spray that lines the inside of your nose and actually deactivates the pollen, and finally there’s Alomide allergy eye drops that can bring relief from red, itchy, watery and puffy eyes if used regularly.

Hull man dies from asthma attack triggered by cold weather

A man from Hull has tragically lost his life following a severe asthma attack, thought to have been induced by severe cold weather.

Steven Metcalfe, 38, had been hospitalised on a number of occasions because of his asthma, and recent temperatures in the UK that plunged in minus figures, had only worsened his breathing difficulties.

His father Tony, 58, and also an asthma sufferer, spoke on Wednesday describing how he had immediately flown home from his job on a North Sea oil rig after receiving the devastating news that his son had died at home on April 5.

Mr Metcalfe said: “Asthma can strike you down – people need to take it a lot more seriously. It has knocked us for six. No one expected it.”

Steven was employed as a welder and shared a home with his girlfriend of two years Debbie Brennan, 39, on the Longhill estate, East Hull.

Steven’s father added: “Steven had been in and out of Castle Hill Hospital twice in the past few months. In particular, Steven had been having a lot of trouble with his circulation. The cold usually makes asthma worse. Over the past few weeks especially, he always seemed out of breath,” adding that his son had died in bed as a result of both heart failure and asthma.
“When you have asthma, your heart has to work that much harder,” said Mr Metcalfe, employed with rig company Wood Group along with his other son Lee, 31.

He continued: “Lee and I were on different rigs but a helicopter collected us and flew us back to Aberdeen. We were then flown to Humberside Airport. Unfortunately, Steven had already died.”
Mr Metcalfe says like himself and the majority of other asthma sufferers, Steven had to use two inhalers and always made sure to take his medication.

“The blue inhaler is used in case of an attack and the brown one each morning and night to prevent attacks,” he said.

Dr Samantha Walker, director of research and policy at the charity Asthma UK, said: “We are deeply saddened to hear of the death of Steven Metcalfe and our thoughts are with his friends and family at this difficult time. Asthma can be an extremely serious and potentially fatal condition with more than 1,100 people in the UK dying from asthma each year. We are working hard to develop ways of stopping people getting asthma and helping those who have it to stay fit and healthy. Our dedicated asthma nurses can offer expert advice and support through the Asthma UK Adviceline, on 08001 216244.”

Cold weather however is only one of many triggers and others include:

. Tobacco smoke.  This can irritate the lungs and it is imperative that you stop smoking immediately if you smoke and have asthma, or avoid coming into contact with secondhand smoke.
. Pollen from certain trees, grasses and flowers. Pollen is linked to problems for both asthma and hay fever sufferers. Many health experts believe the two are connected and that asthma suffers also benefit from taking an anti-histamine such as Loratadine on a regular basis, to act as a precaution to allergic and asthmatic reactions.
. Air pollutants such as car exhaust fumes and the already mentioned tobacco smoke can release gases and particles that affect the airways. Evidence actually suggests a higher risk of asthma developing in people living nearby to roads with heavy traffic.
. Many asthmatics are sensitive to the droppings of house dust mites; tiny creatures that inhabit carpets, beddings and soft furnishings.
. Changes in air temperature. For instance, leaving a warm room and going outside into colder air can sometimes trigger an attack.
. Some asthmatics find that exercise triggers an asthma attack and may need to use their reliever inhaler such as Ventolin Evohaler.

Stephen Fry’s asthma worries at Christmas

Christmas day is now only four days away and when it comes to health, most people will be primarily concerned with how much stodgy food they are indulging in for fear of adding an extra few inches to their waistline.

Perhaps surprisingly though, there are another group of people besides the weight-conscious who should possibly be concerned at Christmas time – asthma sufferers.

Comedian, actor and TV Personality Stephen Fry is one of many celebrity asthma sufferers and Fry will be completely avoiding any festive bubbly with worry that even one drink could trigger an asthma attack and kill him.

He says: “Christmas parties are generally a lot of fun but I have to make sure that I avoid champagne because it triggers my asthma symptoms. People don’t always realise that there are all sorts of different triggers for asthma, including plenty of things that are in abundance during the festive season. Champagne can leave a lot of people feeling poorly the next day but for me it is far more serious because it could trigger a potentially fatal asthma attack.”

Fry’s comments came in the wake of the charity Asthma UK warning that approximately 200 people in Britain will require hospital treatment on Christmas day due to their asthma symptoms. Fry himself experienced a scary situation last month at a film screening when he was struck down with an asthma attack, and carelessly did not have a blue reliever inhaler in his possession, such as the widely used Ventolin Evohaler.

The 55-year old comedian suffered with breathing difficulties and had to resort to asking surrounding guests if anybody had an inhaler he could use. Luckily for him, other asthma sufferers at the screening were not so careless and did indeed have their inhalers. Fry later posted a tweet on his Twitter account saying: “Just had a surprise asthma attack at a screening. Got up to ask if anyone had an inhaler, so many hands went up. Saved.”

As the UK are fully in the midst of a bitterly cold winter, the decreasing temperatures alone are just one risk factor for triggering an asthma attack and therefore people are advised to wrap up warm.
However, as the cold winter months mean more people spend larger amounts of time indoors; this in itself can create a whole new set of potential asthma triggers that are just waiting to cause problems for sufferers.



For example, it might sound an exciting prospect giving your child a new pet puppy or kitten for Christmas, but if your child is an asthma sufferer then this could be disastrous for their lungs. These animals shed a high volume of something called ‘dander’ – a combination of dead skin cells and hair (or feathers) that can bring on asthma attacks and allergic reactions in those who are sensitive to these allergens. It if is determined by a doctor that your child’s allergies or asthma is worsened by dander then you may have to find an alternative home for your pet.

There are many other factors to consider though at Christmas from an indoor perspective.  Here are some important tips to reduce the risk of an asthma attack:

. Don’t use artificial snow. Although it looks festive enough and is aesthetically pleasing, fake snow straight from a can may unfortunately trigger asthma attacks. Perfumes and scented candles should also be avoided where possible.
. Don’t stress. The process of buying and wrapping presents can be a stressing time, and this isn’t even adding on the time needed to see friends, family and loved ones. Plan your time in advance in order to relax and not let stress get the better of you as this is one of many asthma triggers.
. Clean your Christmas tree and decorations. Artificial trees that have been stored in a dusty attic or damp basement through the year will gather dust and mould spores – both common asthma triggers. The process of unpacking the artificial tree out of its box can stir up all the allergens and create problems. A real tree – bought as close to Christmas as possible, is advised. However we recommend that both real and artificial trees should be taken outside and thoroughly shaken prior to any decorations being put on the tree. If your decorations have not been stored in a sealed bag, they should also be wiped down to eradicate dust and mould.
. Be careful about alcohol intake. Some asthma sufferers find that any alcoholic drink can erupt symptoms in them, whilst other such as Stephen Fry, find that they could only have symptoms after consuming a particular drink. Learn from Fry’s potentially-deadly mistake and have your reliever inhaler on you at all times.

Medical Specialists Pharmacy hopes we have made you more aware about the different factors to consider at Christmas if you are suffering from asthma or allergy problems. We do not want anybody’s Christmas to be effected through health issues and we hope you take our advice seriously.
In addition, we advise heading to our ‘Asthma and Allergies’ section of our website where we have a massive range of different inhalers and medications to ease your symptoms. In fact, many asthma suffers will also benefit from taking an anti-histamine such as Loratadine on a regular basis, to act as a precaution to allergic and asthmatic reactions, even throughout the winter months.

Wrinkle-busting Botox may be used to combat hay fever

Almost precisely a month ago we delivered some exciting news for 10 million hay fever sufferers in the UK and millions more around the globe when we reported how a new vaccine was in development that could directly hit the immune system, providing effective relief. This is on top of already currently available treatments such as Loratadine tablets, Nasonex nasal spray, Prevalin and Alomide allergy eye drops.

Now it seems that hay fever sufferers could be offered even more options to treat their symptoms, which occur when the immune system (the body’s defence system) overreacts to allergens, which in turn results in the release of histamine which in turn causes inflammation, itchy reddening or itchy eyes and sneezing. Although hay fever sufferers are worse hit during the spring and summer period, those who have allergic reactions to cats and dogs can find themselves in misery throughout the year when they come into contact with these animals.

The new treatment option bizarrely comes in the form of a Botox nasal gel remarkably, and now Australian scientists are currently preparing to carry out the first trial of its kind. Botox is mostly associated with celebrities who are willing to fork out thousands of pounds in their effort to beat the aging process. As well as a wrinkle-fighter, Botox may also be useful as a weapon against the inconvenient and troublesome symptoms of hay fever.

The Botox gel will be applied to the skin on your nose with the help of a cotton bud, where it will work by penetrating the skin to reach the nasal cavity. According to Philip Bardin, a professor at the Monash Medical Centre, the botulinum toxin could offer relief for hay fever sufferers by blocking nerve endings in the nasal passage, decreasing inflammation and preventing the onset of symptoms.

For the forthcoming study, Professor Bardin is optimistic about recruiting around 70 patients with hay fever and what is a common practice in these experiments; half of the subjects will receive the tested treatment (i.e. the Botox) and the other half will be given a placebo. The study is being initiated after preliminary trial earlier this year showed that the therapy does indeed provide relief from symptoms.

Here is what Professor Bardin had to say on the promising new treatment: “Botox works for three months and then its effects are broken down and the nerves regenerate. So if this works, maybe it’s gel into the nose every three months – or once a year for people who have seasonal allergic rhinitis – and, hopefully, no more sneezing.”

Dr Stephen Till from King’s College London, acknowledged the exciting breakthrough, saying: “This new vaccine is potentially applicable to far larger numbers than the existing one.”

However, the good news doesn’t end there. It seems even asthma sufferers could find themselves better off after a therapy of Botox. Professor Bardin has also released preliminary details of an experiment where a group of asthma patients with severe symptoms were injected with Botox into their larynx in an effort to alleviate muscle spasms. He claims that 80% of the asthma patients responded to the treatment and showed improve symptoms. The next step will be similar to the hay fever trial, involving a much bigger selection of patients, with both a Botox and placebo therapy being tested.

Of course, nobody knows for sure when or if Botox will be given the go-ahead for certified hay fever or asthma treatment as any potential health risks will have to be assessed first. In the meantime, Medical Specialists Pharmacy provides a huge range of products and medications to help both hay fever asthma sufferers, all at great prices. We have all of the previously mentioned hay fever treatments (Loratadine, Nasonex, Prevalin and Alomide), in addition to a huge range of asthma inhalers.

If you have already been prescribed an inhaler, have lost your inhaler, or run out and cannot get a prescription immediately, we are able to supply you an inhaler to help your asthma symptoms.   After undergoing a private and confidential online consultation with one of our Doctors, if you are suitable they will then write you a prescription which is passed to our in-house Pharmacists and dispensed to a location of your choice. This is all done discretely and within just 24 hours. We have both blue (relievers) inhalers such as Ventolin and Salbutamol, and brown (preventers) inhalers such as Qvar Beclomethasone and Qvar Easi-Breathe.

Chemicals in fragrances could trigger asthma and skin problems

Next time you overdo it and shower yourself in perfume or aftershave, spray deodorant on, spray air freshener around the home, use scented candles or even scented toilet roll – think about what all these things could be doing to your health.

We warn this as a leading health expert has spoke on the different ways, highlighting that part of the problem could be down to a ‘contact allergy’ that roughly one in 20 of us suffer from, and this number may be increasing. The contact allergy is in reference to when perfumes and other scented products cause eczema outbreaks as well as dermatitis when they touch the skin, and many more problems other than this can arise.

It is believed that molecules in the fragrances trigger an immune response and result in the sufferer experiencing scaly, cracked, dry and itchy skin.

Dr Susannah Baron, consultant dermatologist at Kent & Canterbury hospital, and BMI Chaucer Hospital, warns that more of the population may start to suffer from such problems in the future. She commented, “Allergies are on the increase, and the amount of perfumed products is also on the rise. Fragrance allergy can show up as contact dermatitis in the site a perfumed product is applied, or as a flare-up of existing eczema. It can be a real problem.”

Dr Baron’s comments follow-on from July of this year when the EU Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety requested that perfume manufacturers should state any possible allergens in their product after reports emerged regarding the risks of skin conditions flaring up after usage.

Dr Baron further warns people to be careful regarding over-using fragranced products as it may not be fully obvious you have developed an intolerance or allergy. She continued, “You don’t react immediately; the body notes that it does not like the chemical and develops ‘memory cells’, which cause inflammation when the body is next exposed to this chemical. Gradually, as you are exposed more and more, the body ramps up its reaction, until it becomes more noticeable to you.”

Even those without existing problems or allergies may be at risk of building up to eventually have a fragrance allergy. Dr Baron says, “You can become suddenly allergic to perfumes and personal care products that you have been using for years. You can also have problems with unexpected products such as scented toilet roll and scented wipes which can cause irritation.”

However, it gets worse. People with skin and scalp conditions are not the only people who could suffer. Those who battle with regular migraines could see a more regular occurrence of severe headaches and experts further warn that products like plug-in deodorisers and mild air fresheners have chemicals in them that could induce an asthma attack. The charity Asthma UK claims that perfumes can affect the airways in asthma sufferers and result in breathing difficulties.

Asthma UK are not the only ones to warn about the dangers though. Over in America, Dr Stanley Fineman, of the Atlanta Allergy and Asthma Clinic in the U.S., says he has conducted research that shows a clear alteration to lung function when the lungs come into contact with particular chemical fragrances.

So what can be done then to avoid or manage all these potential problems? Firstly, if you do suffer with eczema, you should always try to only use non-fragranced emollient to wash your hands and body. Migraine sufferers would be advised to keep a diary that documents what particular products trigger a migraine and this will enable them to keep their exposure to an absolute minimum. Dermatitis is another issue that we touched upon earlier, and this can be treated with therapeutic medicated shampoo such as T/Gel which costs just £4.95 from Medical Specialists Pharmacy. In addition, if you have suffering with allergies and/or asthma then we are at hand to help. We have a vast range of medications to help both asthma and allergy sufferers, all at great prices. If you are suffering from asthma-like symptoms, you should see your doctor immediately for a diagnosis.

Your doctor is able to prescribe medication if he feels you have asthma. If you have already been prescribed an inhaler or have lost your inhaler or run out and cannot get a prescription immediately, we are able to supply you an inhaler to help your asthma symptoms. For suitable patients we have both blue (relievers) inhalers such as Ventolin and Salbutamol, and brown (preventers) inhalers such as Qvar Beclomethasone and Qvar Easi-Breathe.

If you suffer from hay fever or allergies we have many options for you including Alomide allergy eye drops , Loratadine tablets, Nasonex spray, Prevalin allergy nasal spray and Prevalin allergy kids nasal spray.

Those with hay fever are itching for the arrival of a new vaccine

Hay fever is without doubt one of the most prevalent allergic conditions in the United Kingdom, with an estimated 10 million sufferers just in England alone. Therefore it will be music to the ears of millions today to learn that scientists are developing a pioneering new vaccine that could result in sneezing and itchy eyes being a thing of the past. Ironically, the news comes in the same week that  weather experts have issued warnings that the pollen season could be extended by an additional six weeks due to the effects of global warning.

Antihistamine tablets such as Loratadine and sprays such as Nasonex provide effective relief from the bothersome symptoms that hay fever brings, but in severe cases where such treatments have not improved your condition, an allergy specialist may recommend ‘immunotherapy’. This is usually a three-year long period of injections containing high doses of the pollen you are allergic to, as a daily tablet that you put underneath your tongue, or in the form of drops.

However this current method for treating severe hay fever is incredibly expensive for the NHS, and can be massively inconvenient for the patient. It costs roughly £500 annually for the course of injections or a whopping £1,000 for a course of anti-allergy tablets or drops. Also, it is thought only about 1,000 of sufferers can benefit from these types of therapy.

The British scientists behind the breakthrough of the latest jabs claim that their ‘targeted’ approach will result in more cost-effective and efficient vaccines being made widely available. Researchers based at Imperial College London and King’s College London, carried out tests where they targeted a layer of skin in patients that they believe is a ‘hotline’ to the immune system.

As opposed to the more expensive injections, researchers based their experiments on much lower doses than before and using more shallow injections into an area of skin loaded with white blood cells (part of the immune system). The doses are about 2,000 smaller than previously and require a lot fewer injections, thus being less of a financial burden on the NHS.

Tests on 30 patients showed that their allergic reaction to grass pollen, (the most common allergen for hay fever sufferers), actually reduced over time when they were given the new low-dose vaccines. Next, a clinical trial will soon be underway involving a further 90 patients to determine if certain symptoms such as sneezing are decreased.

Dr Stephen Till, from King’s College London, spoke on the revolutionary developments and said, “This new vaccine is potentially applicable to far larger numbers than the existing one. If this approach proves to be effective it would define a new scientific and clinical principle that could also be applied to other allergic diseases such as asthma and food allergies. This could be a pivotal study in immunological research.”

Maureen Jenkins, the director of clinical services at the charity Allergy UK, also echoed Dr Till’s excitement about the new vaccine and she said, “The proposed vaccine, if successful, is much quicker and more straightforward than current immunotherapy treatment for hay fever, which takes years. It also has the potential to offer cost savings. If this series of injections proves effective in combating hay fever, it will be a wonderful step forward in tackling this common, but often underestimated allergy.”

Volvo battle against hay fever with radical new cars

Car manufacturer Volvo, already have a well-established reputation for quality cars and the company has witnessed a massive growth in the past decade especially. The Swedish company were once more known for safety above aesthetics and style, but in recent years, the manufacturers have carved themselves a fabulous reputation for good-looking, affordable cars. Now they have turned more of their attentions to the medical aspects of the vehicles.

In a bid to help the estimated 10 million people suffering from hay fever in the UK, Volvo have made the applaudable decision to include either an Air Quality System (AQS) or Pollen Filter, as standard in any model of its cars.

An AQS operates by examining the levels of particles from incoming air, via the use of an interior air quality sensor. If it detects that levels of air inside the vehicle may become hazardous to the driver (i.e. the car in front giving off toxic carbon monoxide), it can immediately shut off the air intake. This happens without the driver having to do anything whatsoever.

This revolutionary idea, combined with the pollen filters that will be equipped in the ventilation system, always guarantee the driver will be enjoying much cleaner air at all times inside his or her car in comparison to that outside the car.

Nick Connor, managing director of Volvo Car UK, spoke out on how the new technology with be advantageous to hay fever sufferers on the road and said, “Now that some warmer weather has arrived, albeit a few months late, it’s worth reminding drivers that a Volvo has been designed from the outset to keep the causes of hay fever at bay whilst in the car. As well as the health aspects of not breathing in pollen, ozone and hydrocarbons, the safety benefits associated with a driver avoiding long bouts of sneezing, whilst driving at speed on a motorway shouldn’t be underestimated. Hay fever suffering company car drivers should find particular solace in driving a Volvo.”

The good news comes at a time when the NHS Direct have recently stated they have experienced a 20% surge in extra telephone calls from those suffering with hay fever. NHS Direct also warn drivers that being on the road between 5am and 10am is the most dangerous period of the day for aggravating their hay fever symptoms due to more pollen being released from trees and grass in those five hours compared to the rest of the day.

Volvo’s pioneering move will now hopefully prove effective in increasing the safety for those drivers with hay fever, and other people on the roads. There are obvious major benefits to be seen when drivers can avoid sneezing at the wheel from the result of hay fever. Imagine if somebody had a sneezing fit from unhealthy air entering their car and triggering symptoms. It is not unthinkable to suggest that this momentary lapse in concentration may prove fatal.

What exactly is hay fever though you may ask? Well, hay fever is caused by an allergy to pollen. Usual characteristics include a runny, itchy and/or blocked nose, frequent sneezing and itchy/red/watery eyes. Whilst the symptoms of hay fever may be mild, unfortunately they can interfere with your school or work life, and effect your day to do activities, including your ability to drive. Even worse – if you have asthma, the asthma symptoms you experience may get worse when you have hay fever. Sometimes, asthma symptoms only come to prominence when you have hay fever. The best method of combating both conditions is to speak to a health professional that can help you to formulate an action plan.  This will help manage your symptoms, and avoid potential triggers.
Moreover, you should always make sure you have more than an adequate supply of important hay fever medications such as Nasonex nasal spray, Loratadine and Alomide eye drops, and for asthma – vital preventer and reliever inhalers.

Middle aged and never suffered from hay fever? Why that could change

Many of us presume that because we have reached maybe our 30’s, 40’s or 50’s and have never suffered from hay fever that we can safely assume that we will never suffer from it.

However a growing number of middle aged people who have never suffered before from an allergic reaction to pollen before, are discovering for the first time this year the misery of a constantly runny nose, itchy streaming eyes and a prickly throat that just won’t clear.

“Each year my colleagues and I see more and more middle aged men and older patients coming to our clinics for the very first time”, says Dr Suraniith Seneviratne, a consultant in clinical immunology and allergy at The Royal Free Hospital in London.

Dr Seneviratne went on to add: “The idea that allergies affect only young people is I’m afraid, a bit of a myth.” Around 26 per cent of the adult population (12million people) suffer from allergic rhinitis, a term which covers all kinds of reactions to allergens, including hay fever. However al least a third of those (more than four million) are between the ages of 45 to 65 according to research company Datamonitor Healthcare, and according to experts that is set to rise.

There are three main factors that are claimed to be behind this, with the first being our washed out summer that experts claim has created a perfect storm for hay fever.

According to Patrick Suchon health business manager at the Meteorological Office: “Grass pollen, which is thought to cause 90 per cent of all hay fever, has had a bumper season. The heavy rain has created a particularly lush crop of grasses this year and while the rain dampens down the pollen count, when it stops and the sun comes out as it did last week; the pollen count goes very high, very quickly, as the plants make the most of the sunshine. Another issue is that because of the wet damp weather, mould spores which come from fungi such as mushrooms and decaying vegetation, which usually don’t appear until very late summer and early autumn, are being released early.”

The second factor claimed to be behind developing hay fever late in life is the fact that our immune system can start to show signs of wear and tear as we get older. As we get older our immune system can start to become compromised by illness, long term stress or simply through ageing.

Lindsey McManus, deputy chief executive of the charity Allergy UK says: “A weak immune system doesn’t mean you will get hay fever, but it could mean that you are more susceptible to it. We hear from people for whom hay fever becomes a problem after a severe illness or a run of nasty viruses or bugs.”

According to Professor Roy Kennedy of the National Pollen and Aerobiology Research Unit, the third reason causing people to develop hay fever later on in life is the introduction of new allergens.
Professor Kennedy explains: “There are a lot of new species of plant being introduced in the UK. For example ragweed, which came from America and is now spreading throughout Europe, is a highly allergic plant producing very high rates of pollen. Added to this ragweed produces more pollen in wet years.”

There are a number of medicines available to treat hay fever including Loratadine, a non-drowsy antihistamine which can provide relief from the symptoms of hay fever, Nasonex nasal spray which is a nasal corticosteroid spray for the relief of congestion, sneezing, itching and a runny nose. Prevalin is another nasal spray that lines the inside of your nose and actually deactivates the pollen, and finally there’s Alomide allergy eye drops that can bring relief from red, itchy, watery and puffy eyes if used regularly.

Medical Specialists is an online pharmacy established since 1994 that can provide prescription hay fever medication such as Nasonex, following a simple online consultation with one of our in house Doctors. Our resident Pharmacists will then dispense and post out your medications for next day delivery.

Following the recent expansion of our chemist shop, we now offer the previously mentioned products; Prevalin allergy nasal spray, Prevalin allergy kids nasal spray and Alomide allergy eye drops, which can all help to ease the symptoms of hay fever.

GPs inundated with trivial complaints

A new campaign has been launched to encourage people to seek help from their local pharmacy for less serious problems and ailments rather than taking a trip to visit their GP for trivial complaints about colds and dandruff. The National Self Care Forum are urging more self-care and management after latest NHS statistics show that a fifth of visits to GPs are unnecessary and are wasting doctors’ time, which could be spent dealing with more serious issues and this is causing a massive backlog for doctors.

Dr Paul Stillman, a GP in Crawley, West Sussex, and a member of the National Self Care Forum, said “What we think so far is that patients tend to use the same source of advice whatever the symptoms. So they’ll either go to their GP for everything, or always go to their pharmacist, or phone NHS Direct. We want to test this theory on a larger number of people to try and identify ways of getting them to alter their behaviour.”

Stephanie Varah, the chief executive of the National Association for Patient Participation, is the patient champion for the national Self Care Forum. She backed up Dr Stillman’s comments and said, “Empowering individuals to access and understand appropriate information that supports shared and informed decision making about treatment, self-care and lifestyle choices is key to helping people understand how they can better look after themselves.”

The NHS survey was conducted by analysing records from more than 200 GP surgeries around the country. Common complaints include problems such as blocked noses and dandruff. Of the 51.4 million GP visits across both England and Wales, this is equating to 5.2 million that could have easily been avoided if patients had maybe tried effective over the counter products that do not require a prescription from their doctor.


It was calculated that a staggering 40,000 people see their doctor because they are concerned about dandruff. Nizoral Anti-Dandruff shampoo and Neutrogena T-Gel Therapeutic shampoo are just two products patients can buy to combat dandruff, without ever needing to take a trip to their doctor and both wasting their time and the doctors’. The survey also revealed that 20,000 people take the time to see their GP about travel sickness. A simple search on the internet might have helped to reveal that inexpensive products such as Kwells or Avomine are highly effective in helping with this problem – and neither requires a prescription!

In addition, Medical Specialists Pharmacy is currently seeing a huge number of patients purchase products from our chemist shop for nasal problems. As we reported earlier this month, the hay fever season looks set to last longer than usual and this has resulted in many people stocking up on Loratadine tablets, which can help with annoyances such as skin rashes, sneezing, watery eyes, runny nose and itching. These are all common problems that have helped amass the 5.2 million needless GP visits.  We have also seen a surge in the requests for Nasonex nasal spray to help treat sneezing, runny or stuffy nose, and nasal itching due to allergies (known medically as allergic rhinitis). This can be obtained following a private and confidential online consultation with one of our doctors.

Dr Pixie McKenna gives her advice on ten common health problems

The 41-year old Irish medical expert Dr Pixie McKenna, has seen just about every kind of strange bodily problem and ailment during her four years on Embarrassing Illnesses and its sister series, Embarrassing Bodies. The focus of the programs is primarily to speak to people with a wide range of issues that they are uncomfortable discussing with their own GP.

This week Dr McKenna spoke out and explained ten of the most regular problems she gets quizzed about, and her advice on how to try and best tackle them. Here we give a run down on the ten common health issues:

1)      Flatulence

Also known as ‘passing wind’ or ‘farting’. Sometimes linked to a number of stomach and bowel conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome, excessive flatulence can be distressful for the sufferer. Some people find medications such as Mebeverine can be effective in treating their symptoms.

Dr Pixie says: “Keep a food diary and correlate your ‘windy episodes’ with your food intake. Foods with sulphides, like eggs, are a big issue for people. You should also try to eat slowly. You can trap a lot of air when you eat and that creates a lot of gas. If your flatulence is really bad, see a doctor to rule out any underlying medical conditions.”

2)      Bad breath

This is also known as ‘halitosis’ and it is thought that persistent bad breath affects up to 50% of us. Dentists can usually give good advice on better oral health and may refer you for further tests if the problem persists.

Dr Pixie says: “Everyone should brush their teeth for two minutes a day and floss. Food can get jammed in between your teeth and you need to remove it. If you smell the floss afterwards, it stinks! Also, invest in an electric toothbrush. It’s like using a Dyson versus a broom to clean your mouth.”

3)      Painful sex

Often thought that this just affects women, surprisingly the problem can affect both sexes.  For women, when the pain is located in the vagina, this is most commonly due to sexually transmitted infection such as chlamydia, gonorrhoea or genital herpes. Pains deep in the pelvis could be because of pelvic inflammatory disease, irritable bowel syndrome or endometriosis (when womb lining grows outside the womb). Men’s problems are typically due to tight foreskins, inflammation of the prostate gland, or because of sexually transmitted infection.

Dr Pixie says: “There can be other gynaecological reasons for painful sex – it could be down to a fibroid or cervical polyp. Or there could be a ­psychological element. But by not actively exploring your symptoms further you could be missing a significant diagnosis. The other easily treatable common condition is chlamydia, which has no symptoms.”

4)      Snoring

It is estimated that 40% of people in England snore, so the problem is very common. Health professionals usually grade a person’s snoring problems on a scale of 1 to 3. Grade 1 is where snoring is not regular and breathing is unaffected. Grade 2 snoring is usually occasions of more than three days a week with mild breathing difficulties. Grade 3 sufferers are usually diagnosed with ‘obstructive sleep apnoea’, where the airways become partly or completely blocked for about 10 seconds.

Dr Pixie says: “Snoring can be caused by having very large tonsils or a floppy larynx. When you lie down, the muscles that keep your airways open relax and become limp, causing the airways to narrow and vibrate more. Sleep apnoea can be brought on by weight gain but a CPAP machine, a little device you wear at night, which makes the airwaves stay open, can help.”

Nasal blockage or swelling of the nasal passage can lead to snoring, as the person often opens their mouth to try and breathe better, which leads to snoring. Regular use of a nasal spray such as Nasonex and the taking of an anti-histamine tablet such as Loratadine can relieve these symptoms.

5)      Stretch marks

Stretch marks are common and either sex can get them, but are more frequently seen in nearly all women (9/10) during pregnancy. The abdomen, thighs and buttocks and thighs are the areas usually affected.

Dr Pixie says: “Laser treatment is not available on the NHS but your GP can refer you to the Red Cross, which provides a skin camouflage make-up service. They match your skin tone, and your GP can then prescribe that cream on an NHS prescription. Then, when you go on holiday and you want to cover the stretch marks on your body, you have something to camouflage them with.”

6)      Erectile dysfunction

Also known as male impotence, this is a very common problem amongst men and is thought that four in 10 men over the age of 40 years old suffer from it. Erectile dysfunction (ED) can sometimes have a detrimental impact on a man’s self-esteem and cause stress to his health and the relationship with his partner. Erectile Dysfunction therapy is very effective and the three medications available to treat ED are Viagra, Cialis and Levitra.

Dr Pixie says: “Any man suffering from erectile dysfunction should see their GP and have a blood pressure check and their blood tested for things like diabetes and high cholesterol. If you are on medication, like anti-depressants or blood pressure medication, that may be causing the problem. See a counsellor if stress is the reason.”

7)      Acne

Acne is especially common in teenagers and young adults. Estimates say 80% of people between the ages of 11 and 30 will be affected by acne. Sometimes acne can continue into adult life. About 5% of women and 1% of men over the age of 25 suffer from acne. In severe cases, medication such as Dianette has been shown to help combat the problem.

Dr Pixie says: “Women should go to their GP for antibiotics or the contraceptive pill, or they can see a gynaecologist. Men can also get antibiotics and for adults who have rosacea (a skin condition that causes facial redness and spots), this can be cleared with antibiotic treatment.”

8)      Obesity

To be classified as being ‘obese’, you must have a body mass index of 30 or more. As more people as generally less physically active than years gone by, and we are over indulging on fast foods, the problem has become massive. In 2008 (the last year with available figures), it was found that nearly quarter of adults (over 16 years of age) in England were obese.

Dr Pixie says: “The majority of those overweight are that way because of a combination of lifestyle and lack of exercise. They often say they are too busy to go running or to go to the gym. But I say to them, “If Barack Obama can always find time to go jogging then you certainly can.” We watch 22 hours of television a week on average so there is no excuse.”

9)      Bunions

A bunion is a deformity of the base joint of the big toe, usually appearing as a lump. They can be incredibly painful, and effect a person’s walking. The skin over the lump can become red, blistered or infected. Wearing appropriate shoes and taking painkillers may lessen the symptoms to some degree, but surgery is usually required to correct the problem.

Dr Pixie says: “If you don’t treat bunions as you get older, you can get arthritis in them and run the risk of becoming immobile. So try not to get them in the first place. If they get bad, surgical removal is the only alternative but a podiatrist would be the best person to ask about your options. They would look at your gait, how you walk, advise you on what shoes to wear and also give you a special device to put in your footwear, which takes the pressure off the bunion.”

10)   Incontinence

Urinary incontinence is the unintentional passing of urine. It is believed to affect more than 50 million people in developed nations. It is particularly a big problem amongst women over the age of 40, with some believing it to be even more common than hay fever. It affects men too though, with products now available such as Tena for Men, which can provide a discreet method of protection with a variety of absorption levels.

Dr Pixie says: “I would definitely go and see your GP. Usually, incontinence is a physical problem and not normally neurological. But you do need to check that it’s not MS or something more serious. I would suggest bringing along a diary to your GP to show how many times a day you pee and how many accidents you have because it is far easier for them to see how it is impacting on daily life. They might suggest pelvic floor muscle training, bladder training or reducing your caffeine intake.”

Medical Specialists always recommend that you talk to your GP about any health problems or issues. It is always advisable to have regular check-ups with your GP and know how to check certain parts of your body yourself. Medical Specialists realise that not everybody is happy taking to their GP about every problem, and that is why we offer a discreet and confidential online consultation service with our Doctors for certain embarrassing conditions like Erectile Dysfunction, Premature Ejaculation, Obesity, Stomach and Bowel (IBS etc), bladder problems (incontinence), Acne, Asthma and many more problems.

You can be assured of a private and confidential online consultation with one of our Doctors and if suitable, they will write you a prescription which is passed to our in-house Pharmacists, and dispensed and sent to you at your home, your place of work, or where ever you choose, discreetly within 24 hours.